Jeeps, tow trucks converge in show of appreciation

In another demonstration of support for caregivers and first responders, horns blared and Kent Hospital employees lined the hospital entrance and employees and patients watched from the windows as an estimated 150 Jeeps and 50 tow trucks converged on the hospital Saturday about noon.

A similarly large demonstration of appreciation staged by area police and fire departments was held April 11.

While flashing lights and sirens underscored “Light up the Night,” Saturday’s outpouring had an almost celebratory flare as many people left their vehicles and regardless of social distancing protocols gathered outside the hospital in the bright sunlight. In addition to the parade that snaked around the hospital, Gerald St.Angelo of the 401 Jeepwave club and event coordinator with Richard Branch of the RI Tow Truck Association said they delivered unspecified quantities to water, food and personal protection equipment, or PPE, to the hospital. He said donations were made possible by Jeep members, Walmart, Dunkin’ Donuts and other businesses.

The group that a driver on Route 4 estimated to be a mile-long made a similar appreciation parade around South County Hospital before visiting Kent. St. Angelo said the two groups plan another parade for Landmark Medical and Fatima Hospital in three weeks.

Wearing their hospital attire, hospital employees waved from the side of the road and when the convoy came to a stop personally thanked drivers and vehicle occupants.

“It’s means so much to know they care, it’s so heart warming,” said Sandra Rassler, assistant manager of Unit 4 West. Lori Sanantonio, secretary for the unit, echoed Rassler’s sentiments.

Sanantonio was beaming, detectable even though she wore a mask, following her invitation to sit behind the wheel of a tow truck. She even got to blow the horn when instructed on how to do it.